Had a great time at Mad Mex Shadyside on an absolutely beautiful October day in Pittsburgh. My Apple Cider Margarita was delicious and I'm still thinking about how good it was a week later (which I normally don't do with Margaritas). I was so impressed with my roasted veggie bowl. The sauce on top was delicious and the mixed peppers and brussels went so well with the chicken - which was cooked perfectly. There were some larger brussel sprouts that were a bit hard but the smaller ones were amazing. My husband loved his burrito and it's a great size for the price! Our server was so sweet and attentive. I'm so glad they had the wall open to the outside and could seat us close to the outside. It was perfect!
Our server was awesome! I can’t remember her name but she had a blue headband on last night and was taking care of us next to the windows that were opened. She had a great attitude and was really good! Our food was out of this world, we will be back next time we’re in Shadyside. I wish I could remember her name, she deserves a raise or a promotion. Absolutely exceptional!
1
My girlfriend and I recently visited Mad Mex for dinner, and unfortunately, it turned into one of the worst dining experiences we’ve had.
We are both 21 years old and were seated on the outdoor patio. While waiting for our server, I walked up to the bar to order a margarita, something I’ve done at many restaurants without issue. The female bartender told me I had to order through my server instead. That policy is perfectly fine, but the way it was communicated came across as rude and dismissive.
After waiting for our server, I ordered my margarita and waited about 10 minutes for it to arrive. My girlfriend chose not to order a drink because she had work early the next morning, but she wanted to try a couple of sips of mine. Shortly after, a manager came over and immediately questioned whether she was underage instead of simply asking to see her ID. We had absolutely no issue providing identification. Once we both showed valid IDs proving we were over 21, we expected the situation to be resolved.
Instead, the manager continued to make us feel uncomfortable by watching our table and maintaining an unfriendly, confrontational attitude. If there was any concern about our ages, the obvious solution would have been to ask for both of our IDs before serving the drink—not serve us first, then accuse us of being underage afterward. Once it was confirmed that we were both legally of age, the interaction should have ended there.
My girlfriend and I are always respectful customers, and we’re the type to tip well. Instead of enjoying a night out together, we were made to feel embarrassed, unwelcome, and as though we had done something wrong when we had done nothing wrong.
We completely understand and respect the need to verify IDs and follow alcohol laws. That’s not the issue. The issue was the lack of professionalism, the poor attitude from both the bartender and the manager, and the way we were treated even after proving we were both over 21.
What should have been a relaxing evening was completely ruined. Because of this experience, I won’t be bringing my business back to this location, and I cannot recommend it to others. Customer service and professionalism matter just as much as the food, and unfortunately, both were lacking during our visit.
4
After a solid workout, my son and I decided to grab dinner and chose Mad Mex in Shadyside. From the moment we walked in, the experience started off right. The host greeted us at the front door, and we were seated immediately in a booth. The restaurant was not busy at all very light crowd, which made for a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.
Our server, Joel, promptly brought our drinks and took great care of us throughout the meal.
Rainbow Salad (Grilled Chicken added): $15.00 + $5.00
Huge portion, fresh ingredients, and very filling. The grilled chicken was well-prepared and complemented the salad perfectly. Definitely a standout dish.
Carnitas Quesadilla: $14.00 Served in three generous sections, packed with flavor. The carnitas were tender and well-seasoned, very satisfying.
Agua Fresca (Seasonal): $4.75
Refreshing and light, a great choice post-workout.
Guacamole (Side): $2.00
Mexican Chocolate Brownie: $9.00
We shared this dessert, which came warm and topped with vanilla ice cream and whipped cream. Absolutely delicious and the perfect way to end the meal.
Subtotal: $49.75
Total (with tax): $53.24
Food: Fresh, flavorful, and generous portions across the board.
Service: Joel was attentive, friendly, and efficient without hovering.
The atmosphere: Clean, calm, and comfortable, especially nice with the lighter crowd.
Everything from being seated immediately to the quality of the food made this a very enjoyable visit. I’ll definitely be returning to explore more items on the menu. Mad Mex delivered a solid dining experience, and this visit reinforced why it remains a popular spot in Pittsburgh.
5
They are so nice and friendly. Great staff food always fresh and hot. The food is served fast. They messed up my order and offered to refund it and I told them no I will just give me a side to put on it and they gave me a whole new order fresh and hot omg wasn't expecting that!!! They are truly awesome. I highly recommend this place. I've been a loyal customer for 3years...still going strong. Thank u Beautiful decorations as well the atmosphere is always popping. They also make great drinks.
